In a heartbreaking turn of events, NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, were tragically killed in a horrific car accident involving a suspected drunk driver. The fatal incident occurred on the evening of August 29, 2024, in Salem County, New Jersey. Both brothers were enjoying a late-summer evening bike ride when their lives were abruptly taken.
According to the New Jersey State Police, the crash happened at approximately 8:19 PM on County Route 551 North, near milepost 11.1 in Oldmans Township. Johnny Gaudreau, aged 31, from Carneys Point, and Matthew Gaudreau, aged 29, from Pedricktown, were cycling north along the road. The brothers were riding close to the fog line, a common practice for cyclists trying to stay as safe as possible while sharing the road with vehicles.
At the same time, Sean M. Higgins, a 43-year-old resident of Woodstown, New Jersey, was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee on the same road. He was following behind a slower-moving sedan and an SUV. Witnesses report that Higgins, seemingly impatient with the slow pace of the vehicles ahead, decided to overtake them by moving into the southbound lane. His reckless decision set off a chain of events that would ultimately result in tragedy.
As Higgins attempted to re-enter the northbound lane after passing the sedan, the SUV in front of him shifted to the middle of the roadway. The SUV’s driver was attempting to pass the two cyclists safely by moving between the north and south lanes. This maneuver left Higgins with a split-second decision. He chose to pass the SUV on the right side, a risky and dangerous move.
Tragically, Higgins failed to see Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau riding their bicycles along the right side of the road. His Jeep Grand Cherokee struck the brothers from behind, sending them crashing to the ground. The impact was severe, and both Johnny and Matthew sustained fatal injuries. Despite the prompt response of emergency services, the brothers were pronounced dead at the scene.
In the aftermath of the crash, New Jersey State Police launched an immediate investigation. Through their preliminary findings, officers suspected that Higgins had been driving under the influence of alcohol at the time of the collision. This suspicion led to Higgins being charged with two counts of death by auto, a serious offense that carries heavy penalties under New Jersey law. He was subsequently taken into custody and lodged in the Salem County Correctional Facility.
As the investigation continues, authorities are piecing together the events leading up to the tragedy. They are also awaiting toxicology reports that could confirm Higgins’ blood alcohol level at the time of the crash. This information will be crucial in building the case against him.
The loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau has sent shockwaves through the hockey community and beyond. Johnny Gaudreau, a beloved NHL star, known for his incredible skill on the ice and his humble nature off it, had touched the lives of many fans, teammates, and friends. His younger brother, Matthew, while less known to the public, was equally cherished by those close to him. The brothers were inseparable, sharing not only a love for hockey but also a deep bond that was evident to all who knew them.
In the wake of this tragedy, tributes have poured in from all corners. Teammates, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to express their grief and to offer condolences to the Gaudreau family. The Philadelphia Flyers, Johnny’s team, released a statement expressing their deep sorrow and pledging support to the Gaudreau family during this unimaginably difficult time.
The devastating loss of the Gaudreau brothers has reignited conversations about the dangers of drunk driving. Advocates for road safety are calling for stricter penalties for those who choose to drive under the influence, as well as increased awareness about the consequences of such reckless behavior.
As the community mourns, there is a collective hope that justice will be served and that this tragedy will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of responsible driving. The investigation remains active, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
For now, the focus remains on honoring the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau and supporting their grieving family.
